Why was there a period of time where work was not conducted in the Baffin/Phase 1 area (Port Royal Drive to Shorebird Park)?

In the southern end of the project, the contractor’s permit restricts operations during bird nesting windows unless bird nesting surveys are completed and approved by the permitting agencies. Environmental surveys were conducted by a biologist to ensure Ridgway’s Rail and California Black Rail birds are protected during their nesting season. The surveys determine whether protected species of birds are actually nesting or whether construction activities may resume. 

In anticipation of this requirement, the contractor focused efforts in the southern area several months prior to the bird nesting restrictions. The project schedule has been built to accommodate environmental regulatory agencies requirements related to area wildlife while still completing work as quickly and efficiently as possible.